Sept 15 Holiday: A Gift Of Unity For Malaysians
Universiti Putra Malaysia's Social Anthropology Professor, Dr Sarjit Singh Gill, described the announcement as a symbol of the government's commitment to fostering unity among the country's multi-racial society.
'I believe Malaysians will support the noble efforts of the MADANI Government in strengthening human relations and mutual respect, as outlined in the Rukun Negara. It must be emphasised that diversity is Malaysia's greatest strength.
'This additional holiday provides an opportunity for the community to organise various social and community activities that foster the spirit of unity,' he told Bernama.
Sarjit, who is also the deputy chairman of the National Unity and Social Cohesion Cluster at the Akademi Profesor Malaysia (APM), emphasised that the voices of the younger generation should be amplified to create an organic narrative of unity, ensuring that the message of togetherness remains relevant over time.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his special announcement for Malaysians streamed live on national televisions and social media platforms today, declared Sept 15 as an additional public holiday to honour the spirit of national unity and the significance of Malaysia's formation.
The public is also encouraged to take advantage of the holiday to strengthen family ties in their hometowns or spend time travelling within the country.
Meanwhile, private sector employee K. Sivananthan, 37, said the additional holiday provides an opportunity to spend more quality time with his family as it coincides with the school holiday week.
'The long holiday is much anticipated, and we will take this opportunity to go on a family trip and strengthen our bonds... it can also help boost the local economy nationwide,' he said.
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